Government support can encourage eco mobility

However, hurdles of restricted distance due to limited battery technology and the lack of a charging infrastructure are holding back the widespread deployment of the EV.

Among the car makers leading the electric vehicle field is Japan-based Nissan. Nissan announced recently that it will introduce an Information and Communication Technology system (ICT) for EVs. The system will be implemented with the new Nissan LEAF. The ICT system will allow Nissan LEAF owners to check things such as usage history and battery conditions as well as perform functions such as charge batteries and adjust climate controls remotely. Drivers will also be able to analyse EV driving and charging data to determine how much C02 is lessened courtesy of EV use.

According to Masao Fukushima, Engineering Director IT & ITS, Nissan Motor, Japan, the IT support that’s provided will allay fears of range anxiety and apprehension over charging points.

Fukushima is a speaker at the marcus evans Electric Vehicle ICT – Infrastructure Conference taking place in Berlin on 22 - 23 March.

Consumer acceptance of electric vehicles will become more widespread when improvement of battery technology has been achieved and accessibility to the charging infrastructure is guaranteed, he says.

“We are working to eliminate customers’ concern about battery shortage. IT support must be given for the Nissan LEAF to become successful. Drivers must be supported by increasing the driving range and information relating to battery charging points.”

Fukushima says initially EV use will be limited to city mobility where the driving range is between ten and 20 kilometres but sustainability concerns may see use climb. He accepts the initial outlay for the vehicle is expensive but adds the running costs are more affordable.

“The increased focus on global warming has motorists looking for more sustainable options. People who are sensitive about global warming may use EVs. The EV price is high but the energy cost is much lower than petrol or diesel.”

According to Fukushima, governments can lead the way in encouraging people to purchase electric vehicles.

“The Japanese government is supporting 1/3 of EV prices as an incentive for people to purchase EVs. This in turn will support EV deployment.”